MINGO JUNCTION — The Indian Creek Local School District reaffirmed key administrative leadership and approved a full slate of staffing changes for the 2026-27 school year during action at a recent board meeting.

During the July 16 regular session at Indian Creek Middle School, the board approved three-year contract renewals for Assistant Superintendent John Belt and Director of Special Education John Rocchi, continuing their leadership roles in the district.

Belt said he will begin his 35th year in education in July, including 28 years serving at Indian Creek.

“I’m so blessed that the board thought my services were valuable enough to give me a new contract,” Belt said. “I’m happy to be given a new contract and keep doing this.”

Rocchi, entering his 33rd year in education and 18th year with the district, said Indian Creek has long been his professional home.

“I am excited to continue working with the staff, students, and families of the Indian Creek School District,” Rocchi said. “Our dedicated staff works tirelessly to support students with disabilities and ensure they have access to meaningful educational opportunities. Together, we have developed programs that meet the diverse needs of our students and help each child reach their full potential. I look forward to continuing our work with students, families, and staff to ensure every child has the support and opportunities needed to succeed.”

The board also rehired Donald Llewellyn as band director and music educator at Indian Creek High and Middle schools on a one-year contract.

Superintendent Dr. T.C. Chappelear said the district has been encouraged by the quality of applicants hired for open positions as the new school year approaches.

“We’ve really been able to attract some real quality candidates for our openings, so we’re getting excited about the school year,” Chappelear said.

He also requested a change to the August board meeting date to allow for a Meet the Teachers reception prior to the session. The board approved rescheduling the meeting for Aug. 19.

Under personnel matters, the board accepted multiple resignations, including ICMS intervention specialist Tom Mort and ICMS head cook L’Tanya Martin, both retiring. Mort served 10 years in the district and Martin 25 years. Additional resignations included Hills Elementary cook Kristina Gabel and ICHS assistant softball coach Megan Maykowski. ICMS Principal Holly Minch-Hick was also granted up to one year of personal leave beginning Aug. 1.

The board approved several certified and classified hires, including Kristen Palavis (business teacher, ICHS), Maria Elliott (math teacher, ICMS), Jackson Romshak (sixth-grade ELA, ICMS), Ariel Ott (fifth-grade ELA, ICMS), and Laura Brinskey and Kaleb Swearingen (ICMS intervention specialists), each on one-year contracts.

Additional approvals included staff for the summer feeding program, continuing classified contracts, and a wide range of supplemental coaching and extracurricular assignments across football, basketball, baseball, softball, soccer, track, cheerleading and other activities.

Board member Dan Bove also recognized student and athlete achievements, highlighting Buckeye 8, OVAC and All-Ohio honors across multiple sports, as well as academic and state-level accomplishments.

District officials also reported success in summer feeding programs and professional development events hosted at the high school, with participation from multiple area school districts.

The board’s next meeting will be held Aug. 19 following the schedule adjustment.